Kenya is seeking a Programme Manager to lead the execution of a multi-year, multi-stakeholder initiative aimed at improving the quality of six Special School Units (SSUs) in Lunga Lunga Sub-County. This position combines strong program management and leadership with a solid understanding of special needs education (SNE). You will not work as a content specialist or as a teacher, but your ability to manage and coordinate programs that impact children with mental disabilities will benefit from knowledge of the sector and its challenges.
- Minimum Qualification :Bachelors
- Experience Level :Mid level
- Experience Length :5 years
Background
In partnership with the Kenyan Ministry of Education, KidsCare Kenya built and equipped six Special School Units within mainstream public primary schools. Since their handover to the government in 2022, KidsCare supported the government by facilitating these units through a comprehensive and inclusive quality improvement program.
As Program Manager, you will be responsible for leading this program in collaboration with professionals in the school, authorities, and community stakeholders. You will guide planning, execution, and evaluation, ensuring measurable improvement in inclusive education outcomes.
Position within the organisation
· Is a valued member of the KidsCare Kenya Management Team
· Act as an advisor to the Director and reports directly to the Director
· Supervises and motivates a cross-functional team supporting the SSUs
Key Responsibilities
1. Project Leadership & Execution
· Translate strategic goals into actionable work plans and milestones
· Manage the full project cycle: planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and adaptation
· Ensure coordination and coherence between inclusive education, health and community actors
2. Team Management & Capacity Building
· Lead and support the KC team working for the SSUs, ensuring strong teamwork, ownership and fostering a positive and effective working environment
· Identify capacity gaps in the provision of inclusive education, health and parental involvement and oversee the delivery of targeted training and coaching for the KidsCare staff and the professionals in the SSU.
3. Stakeholder Engagement & Government Liaison
· Build and maintain strong working relationships with educational authorities, specialized organizations and funding partners on country, county and local level.
· Ensure a solid connection with the head teachers, the staff and the parents in the SSU’s.
· Ensure local engagement and sustainability through partnership and joint planning.
4. Quality & Performance Monitoring
· Develop and implement in close cooperation with the Head teachers and teachers a monitoring-evaluation-learning systems to track progress and support data-driven decision
· Identify risks and challenges early, and lead the response to ensure continuous progress
5. Budget & Resource Management
· Manage program budgets & resources, ensure efficient use of funds, and contribute to fundraising initiatives
· Maintain strong relationships with individual donors
6. Communication & Reporting
· Report regularly to the Director, management team, donors, and other stakeholders on progress and results
· Develop and implement a communication and reporting structure for the SSUs on progress and results
· Communicate impact stories and lessons learned to encourage continued support
7. Policy & Innovation
· Promote inclusive education principles within local the County and national policy frameworks
· Introduce best practices and innovative approaches in inclusive education service delivery
Candidate Profile
We are looking for a confident project manager with leadership skills, the ability to work in a complex multi-actor environment, and solid knowledge of or experience in special needs education.
Required Qualifications & Experience
· Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Project Management, Education, Development Studies, or related field
· At least 5 years of experience managing programs, preferably with a focus on special needs or inclusive education
· Proven ability to lead and coordinate complex, multi-stakeholder projects
· Understanding of the needs and rights of children with mental disabilities
· Experience in coaching, capacity development, or quality assurance in education
· Strong analytical, planning, and reporting skills
· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
· Familiarity with the Kenyan educational system is an advantage
What we offer
· A leadership role in a high-impact, vulnerable child-centred initiative
· A collaborative and committed team environment
· Opportunities for innovation, learning, and professional growth
· A chance to make a real and lasting impact in inclusive education in Kenya
Are you ready to lead for impact?
Apply now and help us drive meaningful change for children with disabilities and their communities.
